The Presidential Daily Brief

intriguing

Marvel Pursues First Film With Asian Lead

Based on a 1973 comic book character, Shang-Chi will be the studio’s first production with an Asian protagonist, a move aimed at increasing diversity in its superhero stock. Destin Daniel Cretton has reportedly been tapped to direct the project, while the cast will be mostly Asian and Asian-American.

Does diversity pay off? Judging by two earlier projects, yes: Captain Marvel earned $455 million globally in its opening weekend, a record for a female-led film, while Black Panther was the first superhero flick to be nominated for the best picture Oscar.